Marais Poitevin discovery day
A day to explore and recharge your batteries
Duration: 1 day
Looking for a unique experience in the heart of nature? Look no further! The Marais Poitevin, nicknamed “The Green Venice”, is a true marvel just an hour from the campsite. During your stay, you’ll have the chance to discover the hidden treasures of the Marais Poitevin for an unforgettable day out.
Let the current carry you through the Marais Poitevin
Situated between the departments of Vendée, Deux-Sèvres and Charente-Maritime, the Marais Poitevin is one of Europe’s most incredible wetlands. With its enchanting landscapes, winding canals and lush vegetation, this mystical place offers a complete change of scenery.
Discover the Marais Poitevin by taking the route de Coulon from the campsite. Don’t forget your cap, sneakers, sun cream and a bottle of water to keep you hydrated all day long!
Once there, take time to breathe in the fresh air of this morning in the marshes. Then head for one of the piers near the Maison du Marais Poitevin, a museum you can visit after your boat trip.
Aboard a traditional flat-bottomed boat, known as a “plate”, you’ll cruise along the meandering waters of this natural labyrinth. Admire the weeping willows reflected in the calm water, listen to the birdsong and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the place. A place so magical that the boatmen themselves are experienced magicians!
An impromptu picnic in the Marais
After exploring the waters of the Marais Poitevin, take a seat in the shade of the poplars lining the water. The ideal place to enjoy your picnic and relax on the fresh grass, accompanied by the lapping of the water.
No picnic? No need to panic.
The village of Coulon boasts some excellent local restaurants, where you can sample the region’s culinary specialities. Let yourself be tempted by these succulent dishes and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the place.
An afternoon to suit your mood
The rest of the day promises to be sunny! Goggles, sun cream and cap, and you’re off on the trails of the Marais Poitevin. Whether you’re a lover of nature, heritage or thrills, the Marais Poitevin has something for everyone. For fishing enthusiasts, the canals are teeming with fish and offer an idyllic setting for a fishing trip with family or friends. The more sporty can opt for a bike ride along the cycle paths that criss-cross the marsh. Hikers, meanwhile, will be delighted to discover over 180 walking routes, offering breathtaking panoramas and shady spots to take a breather.
Smart tip: Follow this link to find all the hiking routes around the Marais Poitevin Itinéraires – Parc naturel régional du Marais Poitevin
Discover our authentic heritage
To round off the day in style, don’t miss out on a visit to the charming towns along the canals, such as Coulon or Arçais. You’ll be seduced by the warm welcome of the locals and the friendly atmosphere that reigns in the small villages of the Marais Poitevin. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the region’s traditions. Stroll through the picturesque lanes, discover the traditional stone houses and watch the boatmen perpetuate the ancestral know-how of marsh navigation.
In Coulon, you can stop off at Au Marais Givré to enjoy the village atmosphere. The bar serves craft beers, waffles and ice cream. Perfect for a refreshing, gourmet break.
An enchanting sunset experience
In the evening, you can choose to stay until sunset, dining in one of the restaurants with terraces in the small villages surrounding the Marais Poitevin. The warm, shimmering colors reflected on the water are a breathtaking sight.
The Marais Poitevin is a natural haven of peace. Let yourself be seduced by the Venise Verte and prepare to create enchanted memories in the heart of this unspoilt natural setting.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of restaurants in the Marais Poitevin:
- AUX PLANCHES IN NIORT
- THE TROMPE SOURIS CAFE IN LUZAY
- BEEF IN SCALES AT MAGNE
- LE CAFÉ DU BOULEVARD IN MELLE
- THE BOIS-POUVREAU KEEP IN MÉNIGOUTE